Clinical studies with Leonardo & pQCT

In clinical research currently the measurement of bone mass is primarily used to assess changes in bone metabolism. The influence of bone geometry and the muscle is often not taken into account. The combination of pQCT to measure bone strength and Leonardo Mechanography to determine the maximum muscular forces, muscle power as well as of the fall risk enables a comprehensive analysis of physiological processes or a therapy. In this way, the underlying control loops of bone adaptation (Wolffsches law, "Mechanostat") can be characterised and the effects of therapy can be documented.

Why Leonardo and pQCT?

pQCT is more than measurement of bone mass.

Using pQCT are trabecular and cortical density in g/cm³, bone strength, bone geometry and muscle cross-sectional area are determined. Unlike conventional methods, the pQCT-measurement results are reported in the correct physical units (g/cm³ instead of g/cm²). Cancellous and cortical bone can be evaluated separately. The results are independent of body size and weight. In addition, there is no influence of extra osseous calcifications and changes in soft tissue composition.

Muscle cross-sectional area and muscle density.

Muscle parameters like cross-sectional area and muscle density are essential to quantify the mechanism of bone adaptation ("Mechanostat"). The same parameters are also essential for the definition of Sarcopenia and Dynapenia.

Influence of muscles on bone – Leonardo mechanography.

Bone strength is primarily determined by the maximum muscle forces. Therefore, the measurement of muscle function is essential for an analysis of bone. Leonardo Mechanography allows the accurate measurement and analysis of important parameters of muscle function such as strength, power, speed and energy with high reproducibility. By comparison with the measurement of muscle cross-sectional area with pQCT also the efficiency of the muscle can be analysed.

Product overview and background information

• Product overview Leonardo Mechanograph
• Product overview pQCT bone density & bone geometry (Stratec xCT)
• Background information for Leonardo Mechanography
• Background information for pQCT bone density & bone geometry

Continuative information

• This topic might also be interesting for you: Basic research – diagnostics with Leonardo & pQCT
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